Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis Through Dietary Approaches

Introduction

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes severe acute inflammation. It affects around one percent of people across the whole world. Due to the higher morbidity and shorter life expectancy it causes, the condition has negatively impacted the quality of life.

Studies show that patients with rheumatoid arthritis spend over a million dollars annually experimenting with unproven treatments. A study conducted in 1989 revealed that more than half the people with rheumatoid arthritis had spent money on unorthodox medicines, substances, or treatments (including diets) during the prior six months. Studies have been conducted since the 1930s to find the link between arthritis and diet.

How Are Rheumatoid Arthritis and Diet Linked?

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis typically report symptoms related to their gastrointestinal tract, like mucosal ulcers, abnormal bowel habits including constipation or diarrhea, and dyspepsia (symptoms of indigestion like bloating, fullness, nausea, early satiety, epigastric pain, and burning and belching). All studies show that a shift in the gut microbiota has been linked to the development of rheumatoid arthritis. The ‘gut-joint axis’ theory applies to human rheumatic disorders and may contribute to the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis, according to recent findings from the Littman laboratory. Their studies found that Prevotella copri is substantially more common in rheumatoid arthritis patients than in healthy controls. The gut-joint axis theory states that elevated zonulin (a protein produced in the intestine and liver cells that manage intestinal permeability) synthesis is the primary mechanism responsible for intestinal barrier disruption in rheumatoid arthritis.

What Are the Types of Diets That Might Be Good for RA?

The Mediterranean Diet: The Arthritis Foundation states that the Mediterranean diet can help lower inflammation levels.

Key foods are:

• Fruits.

• Vegetables.

• Fish (high in omega-3 fatty acids).

• Nuts and seeds.

• Beans.

• Whole grains.

• Olive oil.

The Paleo Diet: The Paleo diet encourages eating anti-inflammatory foods (like fruits and vegetables)

The diet consists of:

• Meat.

• Vegetables.

• Fruits.

What Types of Food Are Good for RA?

Diets alone cannot cure RA. However, certain dietary modifications can help reduce inflammation (which is bad for the body), provide the necessary nourishment, and maintain a healthy weight. This is another important factor because being overweight increases the load on the sore joints, reducing the effect of the medicines taken. Moreover, cytokines, a protein produced by the body fat, can worsen inflammation. Research shows that a Mediterranean diet, which includes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, can be beneficial to those with rheumatoid arthritis. Some foods that can be included in a rheumatoid arthritis diet include:

• Fatty Fishes (Salmon, Tuna, Sardines, and Herring): They are rich in omega-3s and may help reduce inflammation. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids must be in a healthy balance for the well-being of the body. Studies have shown that an increased risk of chronic inflammatory disorders like rheumatoid arthritis is linked to a higher ratio of Omega-6s to Omega-3s. As a result, it is critical to boost Omega-3s and decrease Omega-6s, which can cause inflammation and are present in meats, some oils, and fried and processed foods.

• Fruits and Vegetables (Citrus Fruits, Berries, Carrots): Rich in antioxidants. They aid in the stabilization of chemicals known as free radicals. Fruits and vegetables are also great sources of polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals. All of these factors may help reduce the inflammatory marker C-reactive protein (CRP). Two cups of fruits and three and a half cups of vegetables are advisable for a person with 30 minutes of regular exercise to maintain a healthy body.

• Whole Grains (Quinoa, Brown Rice, Oats): Whole grains may help lower CRP levels. Refined grains lack the fiber and mineral content of whole grains. Moreover, they may also have unhealthy additives like sugar and saturated fats.

• Legumes (Peas and Beans): They are rich in proteins. In addition, they are almost fat-free, have antioxidants, and are rich in potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, folic acid, and other nutrients that are good for heart health and the immune system.

• Nuts (Almonds, Peanuts, and Walnuts): They are a rich source of monounsaturated fats. Walnuts and flaxseeds are abundant sources of Omega-3 fatty acids and benefit those with rheumatoid arthritis. However, nuts should be consumed cautiously, as they are high in calories and fats.

Which Supplements Are Most Effective for Rheumatoid Arthritis?

It is crucial to have enough essential vitamins and minerals for good health. If someone has rheumatoid arthritis (RA), some nutrients become even more vital, including:

• Calcium.

• Chromium.

• Folate.

• Iron.

• Magnesium.

• Selenium.

• Vitamin A.

• B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6, B12).

• Vitamin C.

• Vitamin D.

• Vitamin E.

• Vitamin K.

• Zinc.

If the diet does not provide enough of these, the doctor may suggest taking these supplements.

What Types of Foods Should Be Avoided With Rheumatoid Arthritis?

While considering food that lowers inflammation, care should be taken to avoid food for RA that worsens inflammation. These are called pro-inflammatory foods. Foods that can trigger RA include:

• Processed carbohydrates like refined flour, white sugar, etc.

• Foods rich in saturated fats, like fried foods.

• Red meat.

• Processed meats.

• Dairy.

• Egg.

• Salt intake.

Practical Tips for Healthier Substitutions:

• If it is not possible to eliminate the above-mentioned food items, it is important to keep their consumption to a minimum.

• Instead of grilling or frying, consider steaming, simmering, or braising the meals.

• Have refined sugars in moderation and avoid over intake. Try to opt for gluten-free alternatives. Fish is a great substitute for red meat. Salmon, tuna, and sardines provide excellent protein and can be replaced with red meat.

• Small changes in diet can do wonders to reduce inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis.

Conclusion

Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of autoimmune condition. It can be eased by making small changes in diet. Several long-term rheumatoid arthritis patients have claimed that eating particular food either makes their symptoms better or worse. Supplemental foods such as multivitamins, cod liver oil, and vitamin D can also aid in managing RA. By including these foods in the daily diet, joint damage may be decreased, and disease activity and progression may be delayed. However, it must be considered that modifying diet alone might not help manage arthritis. Appropriate and timely medical care is also essential for symptom management.